Cedar cottages weathered perfectly by the sea salted air. Sprawling sand dunes. Beaches packed with families soaking up the sun. The New England states have their own style, but there’s also not a lot of space. When you add in all the lovers of the region, you’re met with congestion and a bit of overcrowding, especially in the summer. It doesn’t always make for a relaxing getaway. Would you like our recommendations for New England’s off-the-beaten-path destinations?
As this year’s vacationers head for favorite spots like Newport, Rhode Island, and Provincetown, Massachusetts, why not literally make a left turn instead? These states all have their own off-the-beaten-path towns, each of which have their own unique attributes. Consider these charming getaways for New England’s off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Marblehead, Massachusetts
While it might remind you of scenes from the movies Cape Fear or the Good Son, there’s nothing horrifying about the craggy landscapes of Marblehead. If you don’t feel like you’ve stepped back in time, the abundance of the town’s historical architecture will certainly transport you to the 1700s. Marblehead is about 35 minutes outside of Boston on a tiny peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic. On this little peninsula, there are more than 300 homes designated historic places that date back to the 1600s and 1700s. A lot of these homes have a plaque in front offering the names of the original settlers and the year the home was built. In addition to the homes, you can also explore such places as Fort Sewall and the Marblehead Lighthouse.
York, Maine
Located between Kittery and Kennebunkport is the tiny town with loads of charm, York, Maine. Once you’re greeted by the Stonewall Kitchen’s sign at the exit offramp, you’ll discover even more delightful places. For instance, Grain Surfboards offers entirely homemade surfboards, which you can then take to the beach at Long Sands. Or, if you’re in a less radical mood, consider lazing the day away at Short Sands, where you’ll find a homemade ice cream parlor, Goldenrod, that’s been serving up local treats for over 125 years. Want to hit the trails? Consider hiking up Mount Agamenticus – Big A, as it’s known by the locals. If you’re more up for strolling that striking a path up the mountain, take a leisurely walk along Cliff Walk at the waterfront.
What’s your favorite New England getaway? Are you willing to explore these off-the-beaten-path destinations?
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